Zanni has smuggled video from Tanipal that shows Ronolo making a deal with Tchlusarud to turn over two human worlds to the Saurians in exchange for a ruling position. She plans to go with JeMerik to Gaia to deliver the video, while she wants Sam to stay on Delassia to protect her homeworld. Sam becomes jealous of JeMerik.

Sam saves Zanni from Ronolo. Although Ronolo arrives at Gaia before Sam, Zanni's video evidence of collusion with the Saurians and her specifications for a new warp drive allows her the leverage to negotiate full union status for Delassia. With the Saurians about the invade Delassia, Sam is made acting commander of the union army.